What Happens After Your Wedding Ceremony? Understanding Marriage Registration

One of the most common questions couples ask after their wedding is, "What happens now?"

While you are legally married the moment your ceremony is completed, there's one important step that still needs to happen behind the scenes – your marriage must be officially registered with Births, Deaths and Marriages (BDM) in the state where your wedding took place.

Your Celebrant's Role

As your celebrant, I am legally required to submit your marriage documents to BDM within 14 days of your ceremony. This can be done online through a secure portal or by mail.

I choose to submit all marriage paperwork online within hours of your ceremony wherever possible. This means your registration process can begin immediately, helping ensure your marriage is registered as quickly as possible.

How Long Does Registration Take?

The processing time can vary depending on how busy BDM is at the time.

During quieter periods of the year, registrations are often completed within just a few days. However, during peak wedding seasons, particularly in March, April, October and November, processing times can stretch to two or even three weeks.

When Can You Order Your Marriage Certificate?

Once your marriage has been registered, you can apply for an official marriage certificate from BDM.

This is the certificate you'll need if you're planning to change your name, update your passport, notify banks and government agencies, or make any other legal changes following your marriage.

How Will You Know When Registration Is Complete?

Many couples are surprised to learn that BDM doesn't automatically notify them when their marriage registration has been finalised.

Not all celebrants provide updates either.

That's why I keep an eye on the registration process for my couples. As soon as I receive confirmation that your marriage has been registered, I'll send you an email so you know it's time to apply for your official marriage certificate.

It's one less thing for you to worry about while you're busy enjoying newlywed life.

After all, you've already done the hard part – planning the wedding and saying "I do!"

The Ceremonial Certificate (Form 15) you receive on your wedding day proves that you are married, but not that your marriage is registered, and therefore can't be used for legal purposes, like changing your name. You must apply for a marriage certficate through Births, Deaths and Marriages in the state in which you were married.